UK manufacturing greener than ever

Manufacturing companies in the UK are increasingly concerned about green issues and the impact of their operations on the environment, although more needs to be done to bring all businesses up to scratch.

A survey of British manufacturers found a high level of environmental consciousness, with over 90% of companies addressing some or all of their environmental issues.

Conducted by Envirowise and manufacturers’ organisation EEF, the survey also found that the majority of companies have a board-approved environmental policy, and an employee or department responsible for managing the company’s environmental impact and to report on environmental performance.

Controlling energy use and waste management are now key priorities for most companies, with measures driven by both new legislation and consumer pressure.

However, despite these positives, it was discovered that small businesses fare less well than large businesses.

Just 58% of small businesses were found to have an environmental policy, compared to 92% of large businesses.

The EEF has recommended that the government offers small businesses financial support and advice to promote energy efficient and good waste management practice.

A MORI survey in 2005 found that just 60% of businesses had an environmental policy; in 2003 the figure was just 11%.